Rising since 1985, #1,728 for boys today.
Popularity of Simcha since 1956
Babies named Simcha per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1950s | 0 | 21 |
| 1960s | 0 | 33 |
| 1970s | 6 | 86 |
| 1980s | 8 | 146 |
| 1990s | 59 | 284 |
| 2000s | 82 | 388 |
| 2010s | 44 | 606 |
| 2020s | 28 | 445 |
Meaning & origin
Simcha is a Hebrew name meaning 'joy' that has long been favored within Jewish communities. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1956 and has been rising in use since 1985, reaching a peak rank of 1,728 in 2025, when approximately 1 in 18,171 boys received the name. Its strongest presence is in New Jersey and New York, reflecting its popularity in areas with large Jewish populations. Simcha remains a distinctive choice that carries a meaningful, positive sentiment.
Simcha derives from the Hebrew root Ś-M-Ḥ, meaning 'joy' or 'gladness.' It is a common Hebrew word and appears frequently in Jewish liturgy and scripture, such as in the phrase 'simchat mitzvah,' the joy of performing a commandment. As a given name, Simcha has been used among Ashkenazi Jewish communities for centuries, often reflecting the hope that the child will bring happiness.
Where Simcha is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Simi, Simmy, Simcha'le
Variants: Simchah, Simkha
Sibling names for Simcha
Names that share Simcha's style, for a brother or sister.
